For More Info
Mary Grace Villmer
Assistant Principal
mvillmer@stmargaretstl.org
At St. Margaret of Scotland, 8th Grade Graduation is a cherished tradition marking a major milestone for our students and school community. The celebration involves a series of meaningful events designed to give our graduates time for reflection, prayer, fellowship, and celebration before they embark on their high school journey.
Graduation Events Sequence
8th Grade Retreat
Before graduation week begins, the 8th grade class participates in an off-site day of retreat. This special time gives students the opportunity to step away from their routine and reflect on their relationship with God, their families, and one another as their time at SMOS comes to a close.
Portfolio Breakfast
The 8th grade students gather with faculty and staff for a celebratory breakfast to present their culminating middle school academic portfolios.
The “Mystery Trip”
A favorite SMOS tradition, the 8th grade class enjoys a surprise day trip organized specifically for the graduating class to celebrate their final days together as primary school classmates.
Graduation Mass & Ceremony
Graduation is celebrated during a dedicated weekend Mass at St. Margaret of Scotland Church. During this special liturgy, the parish and school community come together to celebrate the young women and men of the graduating class, pray for their future, and officially confer their diplomas.
After-Ceremony Dinner & Party
Immediately following the Graduation Mass, a festive celebration is held for all graduates, their parents, faculty, and school staff. The event features a sit-down dinner followed by a DJ and dancing.
Community Support & Funding
The 8th grade graduation traditions are supported through a combination of community contributions and student fundraising:
Parish Organization Support: The SMOS PTA and other parish organizations generously donate to the graduating class each year.
Student Fundraising: The 8th grade class leads fundraising efforts throughout the school year, primarily through the annual Feast Day 5K.
Funding Coverage: These combined efforts help cover the costs of the Portfolio Breakfast, the 8th grade Mystery Trip, and the post-graduation dinner and party.
Parent Roles & Collaboration
Graduation celebrations are a team effort made possible through the collaboration of both 8th and 7th grade families:
8th Grade Parent Leads: Organize and coordinate the overall schedule of graduation traditions, retreats, and student activities throughout the final year.
7th Grade Parent Hosts: In a long-standing SMOS tradition, 7th grade parents plan, set up, and host the post-ceremony graduation dinner and party so that 8th grade parents can fully enjoy and celebrate the evening with their graduates.
